How to choose the ideal door handle for each room in the home?

Practical guide to choosing the right handle for each room in the home

It's best not to make a mistake when deciding to change your door handles! Choosing the right interior door handle is crucial not only for aesthetics but also for functionality, safety and comfort in every room of the home.

Here is a complete guide to help you make the right choice based on the specific needs of each space.

The living room: Design and refinement

The living room is an important room in the home, a social space where aesthetics play a major role. As the central living area of the home, with no real technical constraints, the focus should be on design and interior decoration when choosing the right model.

For a contemporary décor, opt for modern and refined handles in polished brass with a gold finish, brushed stainless steel or chrome zamak. These materials add an elegant touch while being durable. Design door knobs will bring a clean, minimalist style. For a rustic interior, choose handles in solid wood, wrought iron or porcelain. Door hardware has a wealth of models to suit all interior styles!

Main criterion: Aesthetics to complement the interior design

* Type: Lever handles, ideal for ergonomic grip or design door knob.

* Colours: Gold, silver, matt black or white to blend harmoniously with the décor.

* Finishes: To match the style of the living room. Satin, chrome or lacquered for a contemporary look, matt for a vintage effect…

The kitchen: Practicality and durability

Kitchen handles must be both robust and easy to maintain. Materials such as stainless steel or zamak (aluminium and zinc alloy) with an anti-fingerprint coating are ideal. A black handle on a white door adds a modern touch to your kitchen!

Main criterion: ease of maintenance

* Type: Ergonomic handles for frequent use. Consider the pull handle, also known as the bâton de maréchal, which makes opening a swing door easier. You can match your kitchen cabinet handles to your door handle thanks to the many ranges of models on offer. The decorative finish will be elevated!

* Maintenance: Choose models resistant to water and cleaning products.

* Finish: Stainless or anodised for optimal durability.

Bedrooms: Comfort and safety

For bedrooms, opt for handles that ensure a degree of privacy while being pleasant to use.

Main criteria: Comfort and privacy

* Materials: Brass for a warm look or zamak for a modern style.

* Type: Handles with integrated privacy lock or knob.

* Colours: Soft tones such as bronze or satin nickel.

* Ergonomics: Easy grip for everyday use.

* Finishes: Chrome or patinated for a decorative touch.

The bathroom and toilet: Privacy and resistance

The toilet and bathroom, being wet rooms par excellence, require waterproof and moisture-resistant handles. The handle material is the key criterion to prioritise.

Main criterion: Moisture resistance.

* Materials: Stainless steel or zamak treated against corrosion.

* Type: Privacy handles to ensure intimacy (rosette with privacy lock or with key lock)

* Recommended finishes: Satin or glossy for easy maintenance.

Exterior doors: Safety first

Handles for exterior doors, in particular the front door, must be both aesthetically pleasing and robust.

Main criterion: Safety and weather resistance

* Materials: Stainless steel, zamak or brass treated against the elements.

* Type: On-plate handles with multipoint lock.

* Colours: Black or silver for a contemporary look.

* Finishes: Chrome or anodised for increased durability.

The office: Functionality

An office should inspire concentration and organisation. Choose understated yet functional handles.

Main criterion: Functionality

* Style: Contemporary or industrial.

* Materials: Anodised aluminium or satin stainless steel. Bronze and wood bring classic charm.

* Type: Tubular handles or with lock rosette (rather than a latch) for greater confidentiality.

* Finishes: Satin or matt for a professional look, polished finish for a classic private office

The conservatory: Harmony with the outdoors

For a conservatory, handles must integrate with the framing of glazed openings while withstanding temperature variations. French windows and sliding bay doors contribute greatly to the brightness and atmosphere of the room: all the more reason to dress them with functional and attractive handles! 

Main criterion: Resistance to climatic variations.

* Materials: Aluminium or stainless steel for optimal resistance.

* Type: Handles for sliding or swing doors.

* Finishes: Satin or glossy to reflect light.

* Colours: Lacquered white or grey for a contemporary style, matt black for a modern look

 Children, DDA and elderly: Safety and accessibility

For households with children, people with reduced mobility (PRM) or elderly people, choose ergonomic and easy-to-use handles.

Main criteria: Ergonomics and safety

* Type: Lever handles, ideal for weak hands or children. Door hardware offers DDA handles that make everyday life easier for people with disabilities while ensuring stylish doors

* Safety: Models without sharp edges to avoid injuries.

* Standards: Compliance with DDA standards to ensure accessibility.

Summary table

Maintenance tips

A handy reminder for maintaining your door handles according to their materials:

* Brass: Clean with a soft cloth and a specialist product.

* Stainless steel: Maintain with a microfibre cloth and soapy water.

* Zamak: Regular cleaning with a dry cloth to avoid marks.

* Lacquered finishes: Polish with a gentle product to preserve the shine.

Thanks to these tips, you will be able to select the ideal handles for each room, taking into account aesthetics, practicality and the specific needs of your home. All that's left is to make the right choice! Find all our handles on the Milla Poignées website to bring your project to life.